Against All Odds: Michigan State’s Armorion Smith Balances Football Stardom, College, and Raising Five Siblings After Tragic Loss
Written By: Robert Littal After transferring from the University of Cincinnati, Michigan State University’s defensive back Armorion Smith has significantly contributed to the school’s defensive scheme
Written By: Robert Littal
After transferring from the University of Cincinnati, Michigan State University’s defensive back Armorion Smith has significantly contributed to the school’s defensive scheme. Despite the personal tragedy of losing his mother, Gala Gilliam, to breast cancer, Smith continues to excel in his athletic and academic pursuits while also raising his five younger siblings as their legal guardian.
Although just 21 years old, Smith is the legal guardian for two-year-old Amaira, 11-year-old Arial, 15-year-old Avaghn, 16-year-old Armond , and 19-year-old Aleion. His resilience in the face of tragedy and leadership has inspired his teammates and the broader community.
‘My cards were given to me,” he told the Associated Press while standing on a small porch behind their four-bedroom, two-bathroom home as the sun set on a recent evening. “I didn’t choose my deck of cards.”
His ability to play the hand he’s been dealt has not gone unnoticed by his teammates. “I couldn’t even begin to imagine if I was in his situation,” said linebacker Jordan Hall. ‘He’s in a tough spot, but he is one of the strongest guys I have ever known.”
Additionally, the dedicated student-athlete meticulously organizes his schedule to accommodate his rigorous routine. Each morning, he rises before the break of dawn to ensure he has ample time to wake his younger siblings. Following this, he arranges transportation by either coordinating with a teammate or utilizing a rideshare service to commute to Michigan State’s campus. His packed daily itinerary consists of attending therapy sessions, football team meetings, engaging in academic classes, and participating in rigorous football practice sessions. This demanding schedule exemplifies his unwavering commitment to both his academic and athletic pursuits.
The family of six lives in a four-bedroom, two-bathroom home that they were able to secure in part due to GoFundMe donations, according to the Associated Press. More than 3,400 donations have been received on the fundraising platform, raising over $193,000 for the siblings. The funds are being used to help with rent payments, as well as for utilities, bills, food, and rideshare services to transport the kids. In addition, the Associated Press reports that Smith has earned some money from name, image, and likeness deals.
